Michael J. Brown, 38, of the 700 block of South Main Street, was charged with unlawful restraint and domestic battery, court records show. On April 26, authorities allege he locked both boys inside their rooms without access to food, water or bathroom facilities.

“That was his way of ensuring that the children did not do anything they weren’t supposed to do or leave the residence,” Sycamore police Sgt. Rod Swartzendruber said.

He is accused of slapping and punching one boy two days later.

The teens are living temporarily with another family member and the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is involved, Swartzendruber said.

Brown posted $1,500 bail at Sycamore police department Tuesday; his next court date is May 16. If convicted of the more serious crime, unlawful restraint, he could be sentenced to probation or up to three years in prison.